Is Joel Obi A Good Replacement For Mikel Obi, Judging By Recent Friendlies

Super Eagles captain, John Mikel Obi missed out in the last two friendlies against Poland and Serbia but there is high hope that he will play at the Russia 2018 World Cup.

He could not honour the friendlies due to work permit challenges at his Chinese club side. His midfield role was taken over by Joel Obi who failed to lift the Super Eagles.

Nigeria was lucky to win the sixth Fifa rated Poland through the solo effort of Chelsea winger, Victor Moses who won a penalty and converted it in the 61 minutes of the encounter.

Against Serbia, the Super Eagles weakness were exposed. The Sebia dominated the midfield and scored two brilliant goals in the second half.

Nigeria midfield was static, the defence crashed and the attacks could not show any bite. Eagles would be facing one of the best midfields in Russia against Croatia, which of course will require the experience and skills of Mikel Obi.

Mikel Obi showed how good he is during the qualifier for the world cup but since his absence, the midfield has been so poor.

Beside, Joel Obi, there are others like Ogenekaro Etebo, Ogenyi Onasi, Wilfred Ndidi. John Ogu in the midfield. Who fits in when Mikel is out?